“We have lots of people who are living outside, sleeping in very unsafe conditions. This is not something we want to see in our city. Clearly, there’s still a great need for shelter and housing.” – Abi Bond, City of Vancouver Managing Director of Homelessness Services and Affordable Housing

Bond says that the extreme weather response and warming shelters will always be an extra measure but the goal is to find long-term solutions to homelessness.

“Really our focus is looking to do more so that people have a home for the whole year. If you’re able to provide someone with a home, shelter, and support, then they are really able to move on from the challenges they’re facing and make good decisions for the future.” Abi Bond, City of Vancouver Managing Director of Homelessness Services and Affordable Housing

Community centers and other public buildings are also available during their opening hours as spaces where people can catch a break from the cold.

The Overdose Prevention Society at 58 East Hastings Street is also extending its hours to operate from 11:00 pm to 8:00 am on the nights that the warming centers are activated.

Last year, around 100 people used the City’s warming centers each night.

Since 2009, the City has partnered with the Province to open additional shelter space for the winter months. This year, nearly 300 temporary beds are available. The Province also opens extreme weather response shelters in Vancouver when the temperature drops to 0 degrees. Anyone who is in need of a warm place to stay can call 2-1-1 to check the shelters availabilities.

PLEASE SHARE: Additional shelter space is available in Vancouver tonight due to an Extreme Weather Alert. Call 2-1-1 for info. Warming centres are also open – there is lots of space for people to come inside. Hours and locations are below: pic.twitter.com/T8N9i49yLQ